What role does usability testing play in UI design?

Usability testing plays a crucial role in UI design by ensuring that the interface is user-friendly through real user testing. This practice involves observing users as they interact with the interface to identify any issues or challenges they may encounter. By gathering direct feedback from actual users, designers can understand how people use their product, what works well, and where improvements are needed.

This iterative process is invaluable because it allows designers to make informed decisions based on real-world usage rather than assumptions or theoretical models. The findings from usability testing can lead to enhancements that improve the overall user experience, resulting in a more effective and accessible product. By focusing on understanding user behaviors and preferences, usability testing becomes an integral part of the design development cycle, allowing for adjustments based on user feedback before the product is finalized.